With so many family gatherings and small children around this time of year, unattended diabetes medications can pose a potential danger. And since some patients ask that childproof packaging not be used, the danger can become even more pronounced.

What harm can your diabetes medications do?

The sulfonylurea medications and repaglinide (Prandin) are most likely to cause acute problems if a child ingests a large amount, says the American Diabetes Association (ADA). These drugs are likely to cause severe hypoglycemia that could last up to 24 hours.

Here are some effects of other diabetes drugs if they fall into the wrong hands:

Whenever an accidental ingestion is suspected (even for those whose effects seem minimal) you should call the local poison control center or 911. Since it’s difficult to predict the toxic potential of medications, especially if several are taken at once, prevention is key.

Take time to store all medications out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet, when you’re expecting a visit. If you travel to others’ homes for the holidays and there are small children present, make sure your purse or bag with your medications is with you or secured at all times.

Reprinted from 101 Medication Tips for People with Diabetes by Betsy A. Carlisle, Lisa A. Kroon, and Mary Anne Koda-Kimble. Copyright by the American Diabetes Association. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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